His mother, Carol Beasley, testified that Richard Beasley was emotionally and physically abused by his adoptive, alcoholic father, Jim Beasley. She also reported Richard was sexually abused by neighborhood boys while growing up.

Dr. John Fabian, a forensic psychologist and neuropsychologist, testified to how these issues, as well as diagnosed ADHD and depression, may have impacted Beasley's life.

The state argued Dr. Fabian testified Beasley was highly intelligent and suffered from cognitive impairments due to alcohol abuse, lack of exercise and general poor health. Prosecutors asked jurors to consider if those impacts should be considered mitigating circumstances.

Jurors must decide between four sentences. They include life in prison with a chance of parole at 25 years, 30 years or no chance of parole. They can also sentence Beasley to death.